Living with congestive heart failure (CHF) can be tough. But with the right care, you can protect your heart and avoid hospital visits. If you or a loved one has CHF, you’re not alone—and you have options.
Let’s talk about what CHF really means, what signs to look for, and simple things you can do at home to feel your best.
What Is Congestive Heart Failure?
Congestive heart failure happens when your heart doesn’t pump blood as well as it should. That doesn’t mean your heart has stopped working. It means your heart has a harder time keeping up with your body’s needs. Over time, fluid can build up in your lungs, legs, and ankles, making you feel tired or short of breath.
There are different causes of CHF, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or a past heart attack. Whatever the reason, the goal is to catch problems early and treat them before they worsen.
Common Signs of CHF
It’s important to listen to your body’s messages. Small changes may mean your heart is working harder than it should.
Here are some signs to look out for:
- Shortness of breath, especially when lying down or walking
- Swelling in your legs, feet, or belly
- Sudden weight gain, often more than 2–3 pounds in a day or 5 pounds in a week
- Tiredness or feeling weak all the time
- Coughing or wheezing, especially at night
- Needing to pee more often at night
- Loss of appetite or feeling full quickly
If you notice any of these symptoms, don’t wait. Call your doctor. The sooner you act, the easier it is to treat.
Checking Your Symptoms at Home
Tracking how you feel each day is a great way to stay on top of your health.
Here are some easy steps you can take:
- Weigh yourself each morning after using the bathroom. Log it in a notebook or phone. If you gain 2–3 pounds in a day or 5 pounds in a week, call your doctor.
- Look at your ankles and feet each day. Are they more swollen than usual?
- Note any changes in how your clothes or shoes fit.
- Take your medications at the same time every day. Use a pillbox or alarm as a reminder.
- Keep a symptom tracker.
Tracking helps your care team catch changes early and keep you out of the hospital.
Eating Habits That Support Your Heart
Your diet plays a big role in how your heart feels. Here are a few easy changes that can make a big difference:
- Limit salt (sodium): Salt makes your body hold on to water, which can cause swelling and strain your heart.
- Watch fluids: Some people with CHF need to limit how much they drink. Your doctor can tell you if this applies to you.
- Eat fresh: A healthy diet consists of fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins like fish and chicken.
- Avoid processed foods: These include sugary drinks and fried foods.
Cooking at home and reading labels can help. Not sure where to start? Ask your doctor or a nutritionist.
The Importance of Regular Checkups
CHF is a serious condition, but it can be managed with regular care. Seeing your doctor helps catch small problems early.
Your care team can:
- Check how your heart is working.
- Adjust your medications if needed.
- Help you understand what to do if symptoms change.
- Answer any questions about your care plan.
Our doctors work closely with you to help keep you healthy, at home, and out of the hospital. We focus on preventive care, which means catching problems early and supporting you to stay well.
Take the Next Step for Your Heart
Caring for your health doesn’t have to be scary or confusing. With the right tools, support, and regular visits, you can feel better and live a fuller life. If it’s been a while since your last check-in or you’re ready to take control of your heart health:
- Tour our centers and see how we support seniors like you.
- Find a location near you to get personalized preventive care.
- Learn about our services—from on-site specialists to wellness programs tailored for heart health.
Your heart matters. Let’s take care of it—together.
